Tissue Expansion Torrance

With Dr. Sherif Khattab in Torrance, California

Tissue expansion is a versatile and natural way to replace lost or damaged skin by essentially “growing” extra skin for use on almost any part of the body. It is commonly used during reconstructive procedures like breast reconstruction or to repair birth defects or injury.

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sherif Khattab specializes in various reconstructive techniques at his Torrance, CA practice. If you’re considering reconstructive surgery, he would be happy to sit down with you for a one-on-one consultation.

When to Consider Tissue Expansion

Tissue expansion in Torrance CA is a unique procedure that can benefit many types of reconstruction. It is most often used during breast reconstruction, but it is also frequently used to replace lost tissue on the face, neck, hands, arms or legs. Unlike many other reconstructive techniques, tissue expansion offers an almost perfect match of color and texture. The skin may also be able to grow hair, making tissue expansion one of the most natural reconstructive techniques.

Almost anyone in need of additional skin can benefit from tissue expansion. Tissue expansion is more difficult on the back, torso and other areas of the body with thicker skin. Additionally, tissue expansion requires healthy skin. If the affected area is severely scarred, it may not be right for tissue expansion.

What to Expect During Tissue Expansion

The consultation: In order to determine if you are good candidate for tissue expansion, you will need to be honest and upfront about every aspect of your health. Your consultation will include a physical examination, as well as an in-depth discussion of your medical history and reconstructive goals. This information will help Dr. Khattab determine if tissue expansion is the right choice for you.

Procedure: Tissue expansion in Torrance CA takes place as a separate procedure prior to the actual date of your reconstructive surgery. Multiple visits to our clinic will be required. Prior to surgery, general anesthesia or intravenous sedation will be administered. Dr. Khattab will begin by making a small incision adjacent to the area that requires reconstruction. A balloon-like expander will then be inserted into a pocket created beneath your skin. The expander itself will be attached to small tube and and a filling valve, which will be kept close to the surface of the skin. The expander will be partially filled with saline (saltwater) and the incisions will be closed with fine sutures.

Repeat visits, usually on a weekly basis, will be needed to inject additional saline into the expander. The skin will gradually stretch or “grow” overtime. Once enough skin has been created, the expander will be surgically removed. The new skin will be stretched over the area requiring reconstruction and secured in place with sutures.

Recovery: Swelling, bruising, tightness and discomfort are all common during the recovery phase. Oral pain medication may be recommended. Most patients are able to resume work and other daily routines within a few days of surgery. Physical exercise should be avoided for a few weeks. More recovery time may be required after your second surgery.

Results: Generally speaking, the results of tissue expansion in Torrance CA are often superior to other reconstructive methods. However, it’s important to remember that the final results may not be perfect. The ultimate goal is improvement, not perfection. Dr. Khattab will be able to provide you with realistic expectations following an in-house consultation.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Khattab

If you’re ready to learn more about tissue expansion, call 310-325-2100 to inquire about a consultation with Dr. Khattab. Beyond Beautiful is located at 23365 Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 102, in Torrance, CA. Since 1988, we have been providing excellent care to patients from nearby Torrance, Long Beach, Redondo Beach, and beyond.